Micro
A living being of microscopic size, generally unicellular or forming small colonies.
Microorganism
A cell type that lacks a defined nucleus; genetic material is free in the cytoplasm.
Prokaryotic
Organisms whose cells contain a defined nucleus.
Eukaryotic
Unicellular fungi used in baking and industry.
Yeasts
Instrument used to see microscopic things.
Microscope
The science specifically dedicated to the study of microscopic organisms.
Microbiology
Bacteria that are spiral-shaped, similar to a spring
Spirilla
Protozoa that move using a long, whip-like structure called a flagellum.
Flagellated
A symbiotic partnership between a fungus (protection) and an alga (food).
Lichens
The process used by algae to create food using sunlight and release oxygen.
Photosynthesis
A microscopic agent that contains nucleic acids but is not considered a living being.
Virus
A reproduction method where one cell divides into two identical daughter cells.
Bipartition
The collection of microscopic organisms, including algae, that drift in the ocean.
Plankton
The individual, elongated filaments or threads that make up a fungus.
Hyphae
A rigid outer layer that protects the bacterium and gives it shape.
Cell Wall
The standard scale used to measure bacteria and yeasts, visible with an optical microscope.
Micrometre
Heterotrophic bacteria that feed by decomposing dead organic matter.
Saprophytic
Temporary extensions of the cell (false feet) used by amoebas.
Pseudopods
The entire network of hyphae that forms the main body of the fungus.
Mycelium
A relationship where two organisms live together, such as intestinal flora helping human digestion.
Symbiotic
The flat platform of the microscope where the slide or sample is placed for observation.
Stage
A group of autotrophic bacteria that release oxygen into aquatic environments.
Cyanobacteria
The specific genus of mosquito that transmits the malaria parasite.
Anopheles
A symbiotic partnership between a fungus and plant roots to absorb nutrients.
Mycorrhizae
A small group of individual cells living together, often visible as a single unit.
Colony